More than 100 protesters solemnly marched from the U.S. Capitol to the White House, with many of them clad in jumpsuits and black hoods. They claimed to represent Guantanamo prisoners who have been cleared for release, but remain in custody, as well as those who have died at the facility.

Economic gain follows as producers find appeal in city's architecture and landscape. Even after Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans' charms are unlike other cities in the U.S., Throne says. "You combine the unique architecture and aesthetics with generous state tax credits ... and it makes for a good place to film a movie," one crewmember says.

While the season-ending loss to Final Four participant Connecticut in the NCAA Tournament West Regional semifinals leaves a sour taste in Purdue's collective mouths, the Boilermakers are hungry for more basketball.

Ultimately, getting snubbed by the NCAA has worked out for the best for Penn State. Instead of the likelihood of getting eliminated during the first weekend, the young Nittany Lions have benefited from five extra games and earned their first national postseason title.

A growing number of states are moving to require home builders to offer solar electricity and hot-water systems in new homes, right alongside more traditional options such as fancy kitchen countertops and special window treatments.